Notable Campgrounds
- Best for river access: The walk-in primitive campsites at the Colorado Bend Campground offer 28 sites for tent camping along the riverbank with a 50-yard walk-in.
- Best for small RVs: The drive-in primitive campsites are suitable for self-contained RVs and campers up to 30 feet. There are no hookups or dump stations.
- Best for groups with river access: The River Group Camp offers space for 48 right next to the river.
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
- Plan to make a reservation as soon as you know your dates. Regular campsites can be reserved up to five months in advance, while the group sites can be reserved 12 months in advance.
- If your plans are flexible and you’d like smaller crowds, try to visit during the week, during non-holiday periods, or in winter. Those traveling light can also opt for a hike-in site.
- If you don’t have a reservation, arrive at the park first thing in the morning to see about grabbing any unreserved sites available for walk-ups.
When to Go
Spring and summer are the busy seasons at the river and the park, which are open year-round. March through June is the best time to visit for wildflowers, while entrance roads can flood during and after heavy rains. Be sure to check the weather and road conditions before finalizing travel plans.
Know Before You Go
- The gift shop rents kayaks and sells ice and firewood, but doesn’t take credit cards. Bring cash, or head to the general store just outside the park.
- The park has no lifeguards or showers aside from a simple outdoor "wash off" shower.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the Gorman Falls trail, which can be very rocky and slippery. Do not swim, wade, climb, or fish in the Gorman Falls area, creek, or spring.
- Fishing licenses are not required when fishing in the park.
- Caves can only be accessed by guided cave tours, which must be reserved in advance.
- There is limited to no cell phone coverage inside the park, but WiFi is available at the gift shop.
Colorado Bend State Park
Wilderness, waterfalls, and caves galore along the Colorado River in central Texas Hill Country.
Under two hours from Austin, Colorado Bend lets you experience nature and wilderness. The park is home to six miles of the Colorado River, perfect for boating, paddling, and bass fishing, along with spring-fed swimming holes and waterfalls. The 70-foot Gorman Falls, with its striking travertine formations and lush vegetation, is a highlight. There are also more than 400 caves and 35 miles of trails, including hiking trails and some of the best mountain biking in Texas. All camping areas are primitive camping, including drive-up sites, walk-in tent sites, and hike-in sites, although some include access to picnic tables, fire rings, potable water, and composting toilets.
Under two hours from Austin, Colorado Bend lets you experience nature and wilderness. The park is home to six miles of the Colorado River, perfect for boating, paddling, and bass fishing, along with spring-fed swimming holes and waterfalls. The 70-foot Gorman Falls, with its striking travertine formations and lush vegetation, is a highlight. There are also more than 400 caves and 35 miles of trails, including hiking trails and some of the best mountain biking in Texas. All camping areas are primitive camping, including drive-up sites, walk-in tent sites, and hike-in sites, although some include access to picnic tables, fire rings, potable water, and composting toilets.
Activities in the park
5 campgrounds in Colorado Bend State Park
Come one, come all! The River Group Campground has availability for 48 people, so if you were hoping to get back to the basics with your best buds, this is the place to be. Show off your sweet camp chef skillz in the morning when you’re preparing breakfast at the communal picnic tables, and come back at night to share stories of your daily jaunt w Read more...
Brush up on your river songs before you head to this campground, because you’ll be singing its praises at night by the fire! Might we suggest a little “Moon River,” or “Down by the River” to get the weekend started? If you just can’t sleep at night without the sound of a babbling brook, twenty-eight sites are available in Colorado Bend State Park Read more...
Brush up on your constellations before venturing out to this primitive four-person camp! Windmill Back Pack Campground is just far enough from civilization (potable water, toilets, people, light) at . 9 miles from facilities, but is close enough that a trek for fresh water in the morning will be the perfect way to warm up your hiking legs. Though Read more...
If you’re torn between amenities and going fully primitive, the Live Oak Camp is a great option that has a little bit of both! Similar to the River Area site, you’ll find a communal fire ring, picnic tables and lantern holders. Potable water and composting toilets are also at your disposal. Read more...
River Back Pack Campground is very similar to the Wind Mill Back Pack Camp except for one thing - you guessed it - it’s right by the river! This primitive site is a . 8 mile trek from the parking area, has no water or toilet resource, and comes to a whopping $7 per four people per night, or, $1. 75 per person. Read more...
Why can't I see these campgrounds when I search with dates?
Notable Campgrounds
Notable Campgrounds
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
When to Go
Spring and summer are the busy seasons at the river and the park, which are open year-round. March through June is the best time to visit for wildflowers, while entrance roads can flood during and after heavy rains. Be sure to check the weather and road conditions before finalizing travel plans.
Know Before You Go
Public campgrounds (book externally) —